Clipper yachts arrive in Qingdao in China

HAMPSHIRE sailors taking part in the latest leg of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race - which had been interrupted by faults on the competitors' yachts - are arriving this morning in the Southampton's twin city in China, Qingdao.

The race, originally from Singapore to the Chinese port, was cut short due to safety fears and restarted last week from Hong Kong.

It was being run on an elapsed time basis following staggered start times out of Hong Kong, so the finishing order will not necessarily reflect the fastest times, which will be the basis for awarding points.So far Great Britain has the shortest elapsed time of the first three arrivals at 7 days 00 hours 35 minutes 41 seconds.

Simon Talbot, skipper of Great Britain, which includes 20-year-old Jacob Carter, from Portchester, said: “As a team we are really pleased especially when you consider how tricky this race has been.”

Mission Performance and Derry~Londonderry~Doire have also arrived at the Olympic Sailing Center.

The rest of the fleet has been struggling in lighter airs or strong head winds, although the forecast suggests winds will shift to provide a downwind finish for some.

The official results and relative points for each team will not be confirmed until Thursday.